Pituitary-Derived Adreno-Corticotropin Hormone (ACTH) Level Assay

The Pituitary-Derived Adreno-Corticotropin Hormone (ACTH) Level Assay measures the concentration of ACTH in a patient’s blood plasma. ACTH is a peptide hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol—commonly known as the “stress hormone”. This test is essential in evaluating the function of the pituitary-adrenal axis and diagnosing endocrine disorders such as Addison’s disease (adrenal insufficiency) and Cushing’s syndrome (cortisol excess). The assay is particularly useful when patients present with symptoms like unexplained weight changes, fatigue, weakness, elevated blood pressure, skin abnormalities (such as darkening or stretch marks), and mood fluctuations. Accurate interpretation of the test requires proper blood-sample collection under recommended conditions (for example, at a specified time of day, and with avoidance of acute stressors or medications that can affect hormone levels). Early detection of ACTH dysregulation enables timely intervention and better management of hormonal imbalance.